July 2022 FINANCIAL AID
Financial aid What is financial aid? Financial assistance is awarded to academically deserving and financially needy students to help pay for study-related costs (fees, accommodation, books, etc.).
Types of financial aid a) University-administered awards (bursaries) • These are financed by donors who make funds available for the University to administer according to set criteria. • University-administered awards are only for students in their second, third and fourth years. • Applicants must be South African citizens, have a very good academic record, be assessed as financially needy, and make a contribution towards their studies. The size of awards varies. b) National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) (funding or loans) • This is the South African government student loan and bursary scheme. • NSFAS loans are available for both financially needy and academically deserving students. The criteria are set out in the application form and NSFAS brochure. c) Merit bursaries • First-year students who obtained an A aggregate in Grade 12 in the year preceding their first registration at the University are eligible for these bursaries. They are only available during the first year of registration. d) Nominated awards • Off-campus agencies (companies, NGOs, etc.) award bursaries or scholarships to students who apply directly to them.
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